Notes on Apple Tree Water Management

Soil Moisture Monitoring: Regularly monitor the soil moisture in the orchard. Tools such as soil moisture meters can be used to accurately grasp the soil moisture status, and rationally arrange the irrigation time and water volume. Generally speaking, the suitable soil moisture for apple trees is 60% - 80% of the field water holding capacity. When the soil moisture is lower than 60%, irrigation should be considered. Combination with Fertilization: Combining irrigation with fertilization can improve the utilization rate of fertilizers. Watering in a timely manner after fertilization can make the fertilizers dissolve better and be absorbed by the root system. For example, after applying the base fertilizer, sufficient water should be applied to promote the decomposition of organic fertilizers and the release of nutrients. After topdressing with chemical fertilizers, an appropriate amount of water should also be applied to prevent the fertilizers from burning the roots. Drainage and Waterlogging
Prevention: Apple trees need water, but they are also afraid of waterlogging. After the rainy season or irrigation, promptly check the drainage situation of the orchard to ensure smooth drainage and avoid the damage caused by water accumulation to the fruit trees. For orchards with a lower terrain, drainage ditches can be dug in advance to prevent waterlogging in the orchard.